African Cities: A Canvas of Evolution

African cities are experiencing an unparalleled transformation, mirroring the vigour of the Industrial Revolution. The impact of this metamorphosis is evident in the daily lives of city dwellers, which are shaped by both known and unknown forces. As we stand at the crossroads, it is predicted that African cities will become the largest megapolises in human history by 2100.

Research underscores the unique trajectory of the African continent, projected to be the sole region with a rapidly growing population by the end of this century. This surge is fueled by the influx of young people seeking their place in a rapidly evolving landscape, with urban hubs offering promising job prospects. The result? A forecasted population doubling to 2.5 billion in the next 25 years and the intriguing prospect that 13 of the world’s 20 largest cities will call Africa home—a dramatic increase of two from the current scenario.

Spotlight on Visionary Leaders

In the heart of Kenya, President Ruto took centre stage during Nairobi’s inaugural Climate Summit. His firm stance against climate change and its impact on African cities was not confined to rhetoric. President Ruto, known for his environmental consciousness, made a powerful statement by opting for a small electric vehicle over the conventional entourage, symbolising the need for a sustainable future. This visionary choice resonates with the urgent call for creative solutions at all societal levels to combat climate change.

President Paul Kagame of Rwanda has earned global accolades for spearheading eco-friendly initiatives in Kigali, the nation’s capital. Since outlawing plastic bags in 2008, Kigali has stood as Africa’s cleanest city. President Kagame’s commitment to sustainable development is evident through initiatives like car-free days and the creation of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, aligning with the broader goal of electric mobility.

Strive Masiyiwa, the driving force behind Econet Global and Cassava Technologies, has actively engaged in environmentally friendly transportation initiatives. His influence extends globally with electric vehicle projects, including the introduction of electric taxis in Zimbabwe. Masiyiwa’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions underscores the pivotal role technology companies can play in reshaping Africa’s transportation landscape.

Leapfrogging Towards Sustainable Transport

Globally, cities contribute over 70% of carbon dioxide emissions, largely due to fossil fuel-dependent transportation systems. African cities are witnessing a surge in personal car usage, intensifying the burden of greenhouse gas emissions. However, the opportunity for sustainable transformation lies within the urbanisation boom.

Dr. Akech E. Ochungo, a climate change expert and senior transportation lecturer, suggests a paradigm shift in urban planning. Inspired by concepts like the 15-minute city, Ochungo advocates for integrated land use and transport policies. This transformative approach entails creating self-contained neighbourhoods with efficient mass transit modes, embracing electric buses, cable cars, and clean energy-powered transportation.

Decarbonising African Cities: A Paradigm Shift

Urbanisation in Africa presents a unique opportunity to invest in sustainable transport systems, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 11.2. By strategically organising neighbourhoods and implementing clean transport systems, African cities can drastically reduce per capita greenhouse gas emissions.

Global leaders, including Nicolas Peltier-Thiberge, the World Bank Global Director for Transport, express optimism about this approach. He believes that developing countries can pioneer transport infrastructure and services that require minimal ‘retrofitting’ for climate and livability, reducing the impact of urban growth on transport-related emissions.

In the pursuit of a sustainable transport system, Africa has the chance to be a trailblazer in new development frontiers. Initiatives like UNEP’s Share the Road programme, promoting non-motorised transport for active mobility, offer a roadmap to healthier and more sustainable cities. Embracing the 15-minute city model can usher Africa towards near-zero emissions, making it a beacon of hope for a greener, more sustainable future.

The journey towards sustainable transport is complex but essential. As Africa forges ahead into 2063, the realisation of a sustainable transport system remains a pivotal goal—one that demands innovative solutions, collective action, and a steadfast commitment to a brighter, greener tomorrow.

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Urbanization is a crucial aspect of Africa’s development, as it can lead to economic prosperity and improved living conditions. However, the explosive growth of cities also brings challenges such as population congestion and increased demand for resources and services. Learning from historical examples, proper implementation of laws and policies during urban expansion can contribute to Africa’s economic dominance.

Infrastructure development plays a pivotal role in shaping the progress of African nations. According to the African Development Bank, over half of recent economic growth in Africa can be attributed to infrastructure investment. Initiatives such as road construction have improved transportation networks, benefiting businesses and enhancing regional commerce potential. The African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA) agreement offers a unique opportunity to boost regional trade and accelerate economic expansion.

Despite these positive aspects, there are challenges in urban development. Rapid urbanization strains resources and increases the demand for public services. Millions worldwide benefit from urbanization, but it requires careful policy considerations to address issues like healthcare, education, and energy.

To tackle these challenges, sustainable solutions are crucial. Integrating initiatives like smart kitchens, renewable energy sources, and smart infrastructure can mitigate negative repercussions. Public-private partnerships and international collaborations offer avenues for financing such initiatives.

The future of sustainable urban spaces involves concepts like ‘smart cities’ and ‘biodiverse cities.’ Sustainable development should balance social, recreational, and economic purposes while considering biodiversity and preserving natural elements within urban areas. As the world’s urban population is expected to increase significantly by 2050, addressing these challenges becomes even more critical.

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, urban areas have faced health-related challenges. The New Urban Agenda, implemented over the past two years, aims to address these issues and promote sustainable development. The pandemic highlighted the importance of resilient urban planning and its impact on achieving Sustainable Development Goals.

Africa’s infrastructure development and urbanization offer tremendous potential for economic growth, but careful planning, sustainable solutions, and international cooperation are essential to address the associated challenges and create a prosperous and resilient future for the continent.

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Delving into the history of education in Africa, we find a rich tapestry of informal learning, where apprenticeship played a pivotal role in precolonial African states. Oral storytelling, festivals, and rituals were essential in imparting knowledge and values and shaping well-rounded individuals.

In the contemporary landscape, education initiatives are placing technology at the forefront, with online learning proving invaluable, especially during the challenges posed by the COVID era. Skill development programmes, as seen in Kenya, further position African education ahead by integrating practical skills aligned with industrial demands.

Youth empowerment programmes, ranging from entrepreneurship initiatives to leadership development, stand as pillars for Africa’s progress. These initiatives foster a powerful generation equipped with entrepreneurial skills and leadership potential, contributing to the continent’s development.

The role of education in shaping the future of African societies is multifaceted. From driving a knowledgeable and talented workforce to contributing to long-term stability and economic prosperity, education is a cornerstone. Cultural preservation, social cohesion, and global competitiveness are among the myriad benefits education brings to African societies.

Despite these successes, challenges persist. While nearly universal access to primary education has been achieved, disparities within and between nations remain. Quality education remains elusive due to insufficient resources, and efforts to address gender disparities, particularly in boys’ education, require urgent attention.

In this journey through education and youth empowerment, Africa stands at a pivotal juncture. As Nelson Mandela aptly put it, “Education is the most powerful weapon that you can use to change the world.” It’s time to channel this power for the betterment of Africa, ensuring equitable access, high-quality instruction, and a future where education continues to be a top development priority.

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According to the United Nations geoscheme, it is a subregion of Africa comprising 18 countries and two dependencies. The subregion extends from Mozambique in the south to Eritrea in the north. The Indian Ocean is located off the coast of East Africa. Southern Africa is located southwest of Middle Africa and west of East Africa.

The borders that divide Sudan, a country in North Africa, from South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Eritrea, three countries in East Africa, make up the border between East and North Africa. Together with the French territories of Mayotte and Reunion, the three countries that make up East Africa are island nations: Mauritius, Madagascar, and the Seychelles. There are seven landlocked countries in East Africa.

What do we expect from the region’s political landscape in 2024?

A lot can be expected regarding the local political environment. Since most nations in this region have seen waves of civil conflicts since gaining their independence, this also applies to the next national elections. In addition, South Sudan intends to hold elections in 2024. Due to the size of the difficulties that need to be addressed before then, the roadmap chosen in past years must be fully implemented immediately. The required budgetary resources are allocated, the legislative and constitutional framework is defined, and institutions are established, beginning with the council of political parties and the National Electoral Commission.

“I welcome the start of the process to draft the future constitution of South Sudan. It is also essential to create the conditions for the participation of civil society to ensure the credibility of the elections. UNMISS has been mandated to support South Sudan in preparing for these elections. Finally, I welcome the role of regional actors, whose cooperation with the United Nations is crucial.” Statement by Mrs. Nathalie Broadhurst, Deputy Permanent Representative of France to the United Nations and Security Council.

Current election-related anxiety persists among South Sudanese, according to political analyst and former press writer Mekki Elmograbbi of the Sudan Embassy in Washington, DC. This is a result of the experiences people have had with elections in the past. Nevertheless, peace ambassadors in the area assert that for South Sudan to reestablish peace, they must start over and find a solution to the problem’s original cause. All eyes are on South Sudan as they await their election in 2024 to see what might happen to their country.

Salva Kiir Maryadit, the country’s current president, is a candidate for the ruling party (SPLM). Foreign allies expressed concern over the leaders of South Sudan’s decision to extend the transitional government for an additional two years when they signed it in August last year. The parties decided to prolong the nation’s transitional period for the second time.

In addition, Rwanda plans to hold elections on July 15, 2024, to choose the country’s next president and deputies. Paul Kagame, the current head of state, is running for a fourth term. Since the genocide in 1994 ended, Paul Kagame, 66, has been this Great Lakes country’s de facto leader. In the 2003, 2010, and 2017 elections, he was re-elected with more than 90% of the vote. On July 15, 2024, voters nationwide will choose 53 deputies and the President of the Republic from lists put up by political parties or independent contenders.

Twenty more years”

There is now just one candidate who has announced their intention to challenge Paul Kagame in next year’s general elections. In an interview with the Times News, opposition Green Party leader Frank Habineza stated that despite his party’s poor performance in the last elections, he is still prepared for a resurgence in 2024. The Republic of Rwanda is one of the continent’s most stable nations. Despite this, several human rights organisations have criticised the government administration for inciting panic about climate change and suppressing free speech and opposition.

Rwanda’s current position in the Reporters without Borders 2023 World Press Freedom Index is 131st (out of 180 countries). Kagame was just 36 years old when the RPF overthrew the Hutu extremists, claiming they were behind the 800,000 victims of the genocide that occurred between April and July 1994, primarily among Tutsis but also among moderate Hutus, according to the UN. Many of his opponents, including party members, were either assassinated, imprisoned, or sent into exile during his years in office.

Additionally, in the neighbouring nation of Somalia, local elections were conducted in the semi-autonomous territory of Puntland in May of this year, marking the first elections by universal suffrage since 1969. It was praised as a “historic” vote by international organisations like the African Union and several neighbouring states. Somalia is expected to have a better future as it gets ready for the 2024 election, which will support the country’s multiparty, independent, and corrupt-free political system. President Hassan Sheikh Mohammudpromised in March to abolish the intricate indirect system since 1969.

However, President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania has once again expressed her unwillingness to approve modifications to the supreme law until, at the very least, after the upcoming elections. The nation will hold presidential and legislative elections in 2025 and civic polls in 2024. Nonetheless, Samia asserts that the country needs more time to modify its laws and prepare for tactical or rational elections. According to her, the new constitution will take time to draft and get approved. Tanzania is planning to begin educating and raising awareness among its citizens about the constitution before delving into writing a new one.

The Republic of Kenya, which sits in the middle of the nations that will compete in its election in 2024, will again put itself to the test with this. Kenya’s economy, which is the biggest in East Africa, accounts for more than 40% of the GDP of the continent. Calum Hill, BCIU’s Programme Officer for Africa, states that Nairobi has a generally stable business environment and is frequently used as the regional headquarters for American corporations and a growing number of UN regional offices. Kenya’s fast-expanding economy can be attributed to its populace’s increased digital connectivity and noteworthy position as a regional security player.

Throughout Ruto’s term, the new administration must prioritise information and communications technology (ICT) and security to create a conducive atmosphere for business interests.

Meanwhile, Ruto’s administration will play a significant role in ensuring that the region remains calm amid the many elections lined up for 2024.

With all this lined up for 2024, the East African region is definitely set to have a very busy economy with a lot to watch out for.

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At this meeting, leaders expressed their opinions on whether or not fossil fuels should be removed from the African continent. The UNFCC reports that participants in the event came from all across the world, with the main takeaway being that the era of fossil fuels is ending. A choice that set the stage for an expeditious, fair, and just transition supported by significant reductions in emissions and increased funding. The ultimate objective was to achieve a maximum global temperature of 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Meanwhile, on December 12, 2015, in Paris, France, 196 parties adopted the Paris Agreement, which was agreed upon during COP 21. Later, on November 16, 2016, it became operative. The United Nations stated that the main objective of this agreement was to bolster the international response to the threat posed by climate change. This is particularly relevant since it looked at strategies to keep the increase in global temperature well below 2 degrees Celsius over pre-industrial levels.

Rewinding to Cop 28, the stocktake showed that, compared to 2019 levels, global greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced by 43% by 2030. This action aims to keep global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, but it also serves as further evidence that the nations present at COP 28 are falling short of their targets outlined in the Paris Agreement.

For this reason, the stocktake is now urging the 200 participating parties to take steps to achieve, by 2030, a doubling of energy efficiency gains and a tripling of renewable energy capacity worldwide. Along with phasing out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies and other measures that promote the just, orderly, and equitable transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems, developed countries continue to lead the way in accelerating efforts towards the phase-down of unabated coal power. In the short term, Parties were urged to propose in their upcoming round of climate action plans (also known as nationally determined contributions) aggressive, economy-wide emission reduction targets that covered all greenhouse gases, sectors, and categories and were in line with the 1.5°C limit by 2025.

Now the tricky question is… Can the African economy survive without fossil fuels?

We elect our leaders to represent us at tables where such conversations are brought up. When it was brought up, different leaders reacted differently to this statement. Below is what some of them had to say.

By 2030, Kenya intends to completely transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, according to President William Samoei Ruto. According to him, Africa can lead the global shift to renewable energy use. President Ruto stated that Kenya has already reduced its investments in fossil fuels and that the East African nation currently lacks fossil fuel resources while appearing on one of the major international media outlets. He stated that petroleum imports from anywhere else are all gone now. However, the nation is launching a massive e-mobility initiative to ensure that it can use renewable energy for all forms of transportation.

In an interview, he said he was determined to see Kenya utterly green by 2030.

On the other hand, Yoweri Museveni, his counterpart, took issue with his assertion that, given Europe’s current energy crisis, Africa should be permitted to continue using fossil fuels to meet development needs and lift its people out of poverty. President Museveni told the public this year that although Europeans advise Africans to switch from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, they are already tearing down wind farms to create room for open-pit coal mining.

Exploiting oil from the Albertine region and pipelining it to the coast through Tanzania has proven difficult for Uganda. The project was asked to be halted by the European Parliament, which claimed that the pipeline would seriously harm the local population and ecology. According to the President, alternative energy sources are unreliable and would cause unemployment by denying millions of Africans access to electricity for their companies.

On his part, President Cyril Ramaphosa agrees with President Ruto’s remarks. He believes South Africa must move quickly and ambitiously to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy. The state president notes that several of his peers’ nations have already started phasing out fossil fuels. He says, however, that a transition can only be effective if widespread support for an equitable transition takes everyone to net zero.

According to an article he wrote for the Financial Times, the requirements of workers and communities in industries and regions that such a shift would harm must be carefully considered. To ensure that workers are the primary beneficiaries of our transition to a greener future, organised labour, businesses, and the government must implement reskilling programmes, employment, compensation for lost livelihoods, and other forms of support.

However, Sultan Al Jaber, the President of Cop28, has stated that “no science” supports the idea that fossil fuels must be phased out to keep global warming to 1.5C, according to a Guardian report. Al Jaber added that sustainable growth would not be possible if fossil fuels were phased out “unless you want to take the world back into caves.” Scientists described the remarks as “extremely concerning” and “verging on climate denial,” noting that they contradicted UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ stance.

Based on these and numerous other perspectives from African leaders, this debate about whether or not the continent can exist without fossil fuels requires a rigorous examination. There has been an impact on fossil fuels since independence. This has allowed the continent to use it for several programs. For example, it powers innumerable daily activities and is utilised to make millions of items. The National Academies of Sciences further agree with this statement.

And that is why determining if the African economy can function without fossil fuels will be challenging. Guided by the President’s recent statements on COP 28, there seems to be a huge test.

Meanwhile, a new analysis of the energy generation environment in Africa analyses the pipeline of over 2,500 planned power plants and their prospects of successful commissioning using cutting-edge machine-learning techniques.

According to the report, although this varies by region, the proportion of Africa’s electricity output from non-hydro renewables is expected to stay below 10% in 2030. Others argue that Africa may thrive without fossil fuels, but it may take some time to do away with them, as the continent requires time to learn new things or phase out old cultures. But it will be essential to take a step back and consider if Africa can survive without relying on fossil fuels.

This will include taking a step back and reevaluating how to proceed. It might also necessitate working together, particularly with the leaders with the authority to make specific choices. The ball is currently in the hands of the African countries while they wait for feedback.

The post Climate Change: Can the African Economy Survive Without Fossil Fuel? appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

In the face of this impending crisis, action is imperative. The African continent stands at the forefront, bearing the brunt of climate change’s unforgiving onslaught. Urgent and collective action is not merely an option; it’s an imperative necessity. Together, let us forge a path towards a sustainable future where Africa and the world stand resilient against the ravages of climate change. The time to act is now to secure a prosperous tomorrow for generations to come.

The post The Unyielding Grip of Climate Change: 10 Alarming Consequences appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The conference, a convergence of minds from across the globe, was a pointer to the collective determination to curb the adverse impacts of climate change. Notably, African representatives arrived armed with a unified appeal for urgent, comprehensive global action. Their collective objective resonated around a pressing need for increased financial commitments to mitigate climate change’s severe impact on the African continent.

The foundation for Africa’s assertive position at COP28 was laid during a crucial assembly in Nairobi, Kenya, where African government officials, lawmakers, activists, and organisational delegates formulated the Nairobi Declaration. This landmark statement outlined Africa’s expectations, emphasising the necessity for global leaders to endorse substantial financial targets dedicated to curtailing global emissions and bolstering support for the continent’s climate resilience.

Africa’s vulnerability to climate change was underscored during the conference, with leaders spotlighting the continent’s susceptibility to catastrophic weather events, water scarcity, and agricultural disruptions. Of particular concern were the challenges faced by rural women, reliant on the land for sustenance, who bore the brunt of these adversities.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu passionately advocated for increased investments in alternative energy sources to facilitate Africa’s transition towards sustainable energy. Emphasising the continent’s immense potential to contribute to the global green economy, Tinubu highlighted the critical need for targeted investments to drive Africa’s adaptation and transformation.

President Ruto of Kenya echoed this sentiment, highlighting the stark disparity in global investments, particularly underscoring the stark contrast between worldwide investments and those allocated to renewable energy in Africa. His impassioned plea shed light on the staggering number of Africans lacking access to essential energy services, a fundamental requisite for a decent quality of life, and the provision of crucial services like healthcare and education.

President Suluhu of Tanzania reinforced the call for commitment fulfilment, urging world leaders to honour previous commitments made during past COP events. She emphasised the alarming economic impact of climate change on Tanzania’s GDP and implored global leaders to intensify their efforts to combat climate change worldwide.

President Museveni of Uganda reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to its oil and gas activities, acknowledging their potential to generate revenue for Uganda’s growth, fund investments in renewable energy sources, and provide universal access to electricity. He emphasised the importance of utilising liquefied petroleum gas to offer a cleaner cooking energy source and protect Uganda’s diminishing forest cover.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, expressing satisfaction with the engagement level at COP28, presented South Africa’s Just Energy Transition (JET) Investment Plan to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Highlighting partnerships pledging significant financial support, President Ramaphosa urged additional nations to join the fight against climate change’s disproportionate impact on developing countries.

COP28 concluded with a pivotal shift towards a sustainable future, signifying the commencement of the decline of the fossil fuel era. Delegates established a foundation for an equitable and conscientious transition, bolstered by increased financing and a commitment to substantial emissions reduction.

Looking ahead, as COP29 is set to be hosted by Azerbaijan in 2024 and COP30 by Brazil in 2025, the global community faces the challenge of establishing new climate financing targets. The United Nations proposes a renewed commitment to financing that aligns with the urgency and gravity of the climate crisis, urging governments to recalibrate national contributions in line with the 1.5°C temperature limit, covering all greenhouse gases across their economies.

The resolute and united stance of African leaders at COP28 has undeniably steered the global conversation towards urgent action, affirming their pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future for the continent and the world at large.

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President Ruto organised a global climate conference earlier this year to plan, imagine, and build a prosperous future for Africa and the rest of the world. President Ruto adopted a firm stance about the climate change conference in Nairobi during his speech. He said that rather than drawing attention to differences or examining who is accountable for what in terms of climate change, the purpose of the climate change conference in Kenya’s capital city was to establish a stable and dignified livelihood.

“Therefore, this is no ordinary summit. We are not here just to talk about Africa or climate change in the usual way, which often accentuates our divisions—north versus south, developed versus developing, polluters versus victims. And even within our governments, economic development, so badly needed for us to achieve stable and dignified livelihoods, is often cast as a trade-off with environmental stewardship, as if they are mutually exclusive when they must be positively reinforcing.” President Ruto.

For this reason, from November 30, 2023, to December 12, 2023, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the globe is gathering for the Cop 28 United Nations Climate Change Conference. The conference’s primary goal is to reach a consensus on solutions to the climate crisis, like keeping the global temperature to 1.5 degrees Celsius, assisting communities that are most at risk from the effects of climate change, and reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. The parties that make up the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) are among the participants. Leaders in business, youth, scientists studying climate change, journalists, Indigenous Peoples, and other specialists and interested parties.

The elimination of fossil fuels from the African economy is one crucial topic that has come up at the current climate summit. This is because the African continent is home to what is referred to as sizable reserves of various fossil fuels. This includes, among other things, natural gas, coal, and oil. Carefully noted, the United Nations states that most of these fossil fuels are used either outside of Africa or not on the continent. This raises questions about the future and the possibility that fossil fuels will need to be developed within the framework of a low-carbon growth path.

Insights on Fossil Fuels in Africa

Crude oil, natural gas, and coal are examples of fossil fuels, which are significant energy sources essential to African nations’ economies and energy systems. With over 9.5%, 8%, and 4% of the world’s proven stocks of coal, natural gas, and crude oil, respectively, Africa has great potential for fossil fuels (BP, 2011). About half of Africa’s primary energy supply and one-third of its total energy consumption, excluding the region’s contribution to electricity production, come from these resources.

Additionally, according to the same source, almost 80% of the electricity produced on the continent comes from fossil fuels. Around 50 to 80 percent of government revenue in Africa’s major oil and gas-producing nations comes from these energy resources (Zalik and Watts). For instance, 60 percent of government revenue in Algeria comes from natural gas exports, while 80 percent comes from oil exports in Libya, Nigeria, and Angola. These numbers imply that a significant portion of the fossil fuels generated in Africa are used abroad.

More remarkably, the continent nevertheless faces significant energy-related issues despite these massive energy resources. These challenges include limited modern energy access, inadequate energy infrastructure, low efficiency, and a lack of institutional and technical competence to harness these tremendous resources. For instance, only over 31% of people in Sub-Saharan Africa have access to power, with electrification rates in urban and rural areas roughly 60% and 14%, respectively. Furthermore, traditional biomass accounted for approximately 50% of the region’s overall energy supply in 2008, dominating energy consumption. These energy-related issues have impeded economic expansion, which has increased the continent’s economic and energy poverty.

Despite these obstacles, Africa’s enormous fossil fuel reserves offer fantastic chances to enhance energy availability, quicken economic progress, and lessen poverty. However, many environmental and socioeconomic issues at the local, regional, and global levels have been exacerbated by the heavy reliance on fossil fuels to provide energy. These issues include the depletion of non-renewable resources, the thinning of the ozone layer, acidification, global warming, and more. Due to the emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases (GHGs) produced by the combustion of fossil fuels, which have intensified the effects of climate change, energy generation substantially contributes to the latter.

According to the report, in 2008, over 65% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions came from burning fossil fuels for energy. There are issues with this tendency continuing.

Resolutions from the Cop 28 Summit.

Crude oil-producing countries reject the idea of ending crude oil production to halt climate change.

The top crude oil producers include the US, Russia, Saudi Arabia, China, Iran, Iraq, and Canada. Each of them has a voice regarding the cessation of crude oil production. For example, in the US, the Biden Administration stated, “I have considered your petition and have decided not to initiate the rulemaking you requested,” in response to a petition filed on January 19, 2022, by the Centre for Biological Diversity and several other environmental organisations, asking for the rate of oil and gas production on public lands and waters to be reduced to almost zero by 2035.

This indicated that the administration should have taken seriously the petitioners’ and hundreds of environmental organisations’ suggestions to stop producing oil and gas on public lands by 2035. However, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Moscow found the $60 price cap on its oil set by Kyiv’s Western partners to be “quite comfortable” and threatened to respond. Kyiv had pushed for a lower cap. On Saturday, Dmitry Peskov, a spokesperson for the Kremlin, stated that Russia would not accept the price cap and that it needed to assess the circumstances before determining how to respond.

At the United Nations climate meeting in Dubai, where nations are debating whether to call for a phaseout of fossil fuels to combat global warming, the world’s largest oil exporter has emerged as the main impediment to an agreement. Any wording in a settlement that would even allude to fossil fuels—the coal, oil, and gas that, when burned, produce emissions that are dangerously warming the planet—has been categorically rejected by the Saudi delegation. A clause that aims to triple the amount of renewable energy produced globally by 2030 and is supported by at least 118 nations has also been met with opposition from Saudi negotiators.

But things have changed this year, which is the most intense on record. A collection of small island governments, whose nations are most vulnerable to sea level rise and other climate-related extreme weather events, want the summit to formally declare that the era of coal, oil, and natural gas should soon end. They have established the “fossil fuel phaseout” as their primary goal for the COP28 negotiations, with help from Europe.

As COP28 draws to a close, the world awaits the collective resolve and actionable commitments that will determine the trajectory of our planet’s environmental legacy. The deliberations in Dubai hold the promise of transformative agreements and collaborative efforts essential for steering humanity towards a greener, sustainable future for generations to come.

The post Dissecting COP28: Fossil Fuels Talks & Global Climate Action appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

To address this issue, microfinance has emerged as a way-to-go for these enterprising individuals. Microfinance institutions (MFIs) aim to uplift the economically disadvantaged by granting access to credit, savings, and insurance. In Africa, these institutions have become instrumental in facilitating credit access and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among small businesses.

The success of microfinance in driving small business growth is contingent upon the diverse structures of these institutions. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and cooperatives operate on community-focused models, offering not only financial services but also essential financial literacy and business training. However, scalability challenges and reliance on donor funding remain persistent issues.

On the other hand, commercial banks inject significant financial capacity into the microfinance sector, enabling broader outreach and larger loan portfolios. Yet, the profit-oriented nature of commercial banks sometimes clashes with the social objectives of microfinance. Additionally, stringent collateral requirements often exclude many informal sector businesses from accessing credit.

Regulatory frameworks significantly impact the functioning of microfinance institutions. Striking a balance between consumer protection and financial innovation is crucial. Transparent and fair regulatory structures, coupled with capacity-building for regulatory bodies, are essential for fostering a conducive environment for small businesses.

Despite the strides made, challenges persist in ensuring accurate and standardised credit assessment mechanisms. Traditional models often fail to capture the nuances of informal businesses, resulting in limited credit availability. Developing alternative assessment models tailored to unique business characteristics is imperative.

Technology offers a transformative path forward for microfinance in Africa. Mobile banking, digital payment systems, and online lending platforms hold promise for streamlining processes, reducing costs, and reaching remote businesses. However, bridging the digital divide requires collaborative efforts to ensure inclusivity in technological advancements.

Beyond traditional banking, diverse financing models are emerging as key players in supporting small businesses. Supply chain finance companies, fintech innovators, and local debt funds are proving instrumental in offering tailored financial solutions and technical support.

Recognising the need for inclusive solutions, partnerships between various financing providers aim to expand the reach of financial assistance to small businesses in Ghana and Zambia. This collaborative effort, supported by organizations experienced in aiding early-stage investments, aims to empower small businesses and foster fair and sustainable solutions for inclusive economic growth in Africa.

The journey to empower small businesses in Africa through microfinance is not just a financial pursuit; it’s a collaborative movement driving positive change for inclusive economic growth.

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Andela (Nigeria)
Andela, a multinational software developer job placement network, isn’t just about coding—it’s about cultivating long-term relationships, fostering global employment opportunities, and mentoring technologists through the Andela Learning Community. Founded in 2014 by tech visionaries including Jeremy Johnson and Christina Sass, it’s redefining the future of tech talent.

Flutterwave (Nigeria)
This Nigerian fintech powerhouse, established in 2016 by Iyinoluwa Aboyeji and Olugbenga Agboola, offers a pan-African payment infrastructure. Flutterwave’s reach spans multiple African nations, empowering international retailers and service providers with seamless payment solutions.

Twiga Foods
Using tech to revamp food supply chains, Twiga Foods has been disrupting Africa’s food distribution since 2014. Recently securing a $50 million Series C funding, this Kenyan-born startup is expanding rapidly across East Africa, poised to revolutionize how the continent sources and distributes food.

mPharma (Ghana)
By modernizing inventory management for hospitals and pharmacies, mPharma is enhancing medication access in Ghana and beyond.

Zipline (Rwanda)
Zipline’s delivery drones have flown over 40 million miles, aiding in medical supply distribution across several countries. From vaccines to life-saving medical commodities, this American company’s tech innovation is transforming healthcare logistics in Africa.

And the tech revolution doesn’t stop there. From CcHUB in Nigeria fostering tech ventures to JUMO’s finance transformation in developing nations, each startup embodies innovation, societal change, and technological progress. These companies are not just entities; they’re engines driving Africa’s tech future.

As entrepreneurs harness innovative solutions like Aerobotics’ focus on sustainable farming or RideSafe’s blockchain-powered emergency response system, the tech scene in Africa continues to evolve.

With platforms like Yoco empowering small businesses in South Africa or Lynk revolutionizing the informal sector job landscape in Kenya, the continent is witnessing a surge of tech-driven opportunities.

From Farmcrowdy’s digital agricultural revolution to Sokowatch’s e-commerce solution for retailers, each startup is a testament to Africa’s burgeoning tech ecosystem.

As these startups evolve and innovate, they not only offer technological solutions but also transform lives, paving the way for Africa to compete globally in the ever-evolving tech arena.

The post Rising Tech: 20 Urban Trailblazing Startups in Africa appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.